As the festive season kicks into high gear, one young provisionally licensed driver found himself on the wrong side of the law after a dangerous display of speed on the Hume Highway. About 4:10pm on 23rd December 2024, officers from the Murray River Highway Patrol clocked a white Mazda hurtling along at a staggering 180km/h near Mullengandra.
Upon pulling over the vehicle, police were shocked to discover the driver was a mere 19-year-old male who held only a NSW P1 Provisional Licence. The young hoon's Christmas cheer quickly evaporated as he was slapped with a whopping $3825 in fines and 16 demerit points for his reckless behaviour. His licence was immediately suspended for six months, putting a serious damper on his holiday plans.
As double demerits remain in force until January 1, 2025, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of excessive speed and the potentially life-altering consequences of flouting the law. Highway Patrol officers are out in force to ensure the safety of all road users during this busy period, and they will not hesitate to come down hard on those who put lives at risk.
While the driver in this case was not the owner of the vehicle and thus escaped further sanctions, his actions have undoubtedly put a significant strain on his wallet and his ability to get around in the new year. As we celebrate with loved ones this holiday season, it is crucial that we all take responsibility for our actions on the road and prioritise safety above all else. The consequences of a few moments of reckless abandon could last a lifetime.